Club pockets grant to improve safety

SEBASTOPOL Football Netball Club has gained funding through the 2024 Worksafe Club Safety Fund.

The Burra was among 15 recipients in this year’s pool.

Football and netball clubs across country Victoria were able to apply for assistance to improve safety of facilities, and to run occupational health and safety initiatives for players, umpires, coaches, volunteers and spectators.

AFL Victoria chief Greg Madigan congratulated Sebas FNC on their grant.

“Footy and netball clubs are often the heartbeat of country towns,” he said. “It’s imperative that communities have access to safe and welcoming facilities.

“WorkSafe’s long-standing support of country football and netball continues in a big way.

“I thank WorkSafe for its commitment to country football and netball.”

WorkSafe chief executive officer Joe Calafiore said supporting football and netball clubs helps prioritise the safety of players, umpires, coaches, volunteers and supporters.

“WorkSafe has assisted more than 350 clubs to invest in safety initiatives and improvements to facilities and equipment, since the WorkSafe Club Safety Fund was established in 2002,” Mr Calafiore said.

“WorkSafe is committed to keeping everyone safe at work so that they can enjoy the things they love – whether that’s playing on the field, handing out the oranges or cheering on friends and family from the sidelines.”

WorkSafe has also kicked in to support Bears-Lagoon Serpentine, Lockington Bamawm, Maiden Gully YCW, Buln Buln, Coleraine, Dimboola, Edenhope Apsley, Frankston Bombers, Morwell Junior Football Club, Lucknow, Shepparton, SMW Rovers, Tyabb Junior Football Club, and Wodonga Saints.

The next round of funding available through the WorkSafe Club Safety Fund will be available in 2025.